Washington State

House of Representatives

Office of Program Research

BILL

ANALYSIS

State Government & Tribal Affairs Committee

HB 2181

This analysis was prepared by non-partisan legislative staff for the use of legislative members in their deliberations. This analysis is not a part of the legislation nor does it constitute a statement of legislative intent.

Brief Description: Extending the age for service in the Washington state guard.

Sponsors: Representatives Dammeier, Orwall, Bailey, Finn, McCune, Sullivan, Klippert, Hudgins, Hope, Hunt, Taylor, Jinkins, Ladenburg, Hansen, Ryu, Maxwell, Asay, Kelley, Kenney, Hurst and Shea.

Brief Summary of Bill

  • Allows the Adjutant General to extend the age of service for members of the Washington State Guard.

Hearing Date: 1/16/12

Staff: Marsha Reilly (786-7135).

Background:

The Washington State Guard (Guard) is a military organization available to serve the Governor in the event that the National Guard in the State of Washington is called into federal service. The Governor may also call the Guard into state service in other instances, for example, in the wake of a natural disaster.

The period of enlistment in the Guard is set by regulation by the Adjutant General. However, no enlistment may be fulfilled unless the term of service can be completed before the applicant reaches the age of 64.

Summary of Bill:

The Adjutant General may extend the service age of a member of the Guard at his or her request if he or she satisfactorily completes physical and mental requirements and lives in an area where there is a specific military need for Guard services. Extensions are limited to one year and may be renewed.

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Not requested.

Effective Date: The bill takes effect 90 days after adjournment of the session in which the bill is passed.